Buying first X, Helpful Tips..please

[DannyDynamite]

Hey Im looking to buy my first explorer. Can any of u guys suggest tips of like what to look for and other stuff like that when I actually go look for one. Im generally looking for the 95-00 models. But I keep finding like 95,96's with over 100,000 miles. So if anyone has some tips let me know. Later

TOny

 

[bhults]

I have a 1995 Eddie Bauer model and, I also, bought it used with about 116K on the clock when I got it. Luckily for me, the previous owner had replaced the transmission before I bought it. Explorers have rather weak tranny's hooked up to the engine, so definately check with the dealer/owner to find out whether or not they have re-built it. If they haven't, expect it to go at anytime....some people fair better than others with regard to milegae/failure. With that said, I've had mine since last May, and all I've had to replace are ball bearings, and rear tires. Other than that, I'm extremely satisfied with my '95...and now, I've got 126K onthe clock. The engines are quite reliable--especailly the V6, which powers mine. Do a search here for engine reliability---I know I was impressed.

 

[jgilbs]

you can see what i wrote about buying an X here:
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=97116

also, since you are lookin at 2nd gen explorers (95-2000) the 5R55E transmission is MUCH MUCH stronger than the A4LD used in 1st gens, so that shouldn't be a huge issue for you.

 

[X~FACTOR]

I don't know your own preference but I know when I do look for my next Explorer the only thing I would be concern about is getting a V8 in black.

 

[Campo]

If you look at one that has the SOHC 4.0L engine in it, ask the salemen to punch the vin into the computer at the service department and see if ONP (owner notification program) 00M12 has been done, it involves replacing the plastic timing chain guides and tensioners and intake manifold O-rings, if it has not been done and has over 72K miles request they do it before buying it..

you can do a search for 00M12 on this site and find ton's and ton's of info on the program and different experiences members have had with this problem

It only effect's the SOHC 4.0L V6 not the OHV 4.0L V6
You can tell the difference when you pop the hood, the engine cover over the intake manifold will say SOHC 4.0 if it is that engine...

Hope this helps

OH and the OHV 4.0 was standard on 91-96(I think) then the SOHC became an option up to 99 then the SOHC became standard in 00.. I'm probably wrong on that by a year or two, if so someone please correct me..

 

[FHfirefighter]

what exactly are you looking for in your truck? off road, street, towing, hauling, are you into modifying the engine?

you have 3 engine options:
V6 OHV, which is slow but very reliable (not that the others aren't, it just has an even better durability reputation)
V6 SOHC, almost as much HP as the V8, same or better 0-60 time, best gas mileage
V8, not a huge performance difference, if any from SOHC, but better for towing and has much more modification potential

also, test drive alot of different ones; even with the same engine performance differs greatly from vehcile to vehicle because there were many different gearing options and i think multiple tranny options on some trucks...when i was looking i test drove an '99 OHV sport that was almost as quick as the V8's and SOHC's, and some V8's that felt like they were really dragging tail...

I belive campo is right on the SOHC years, and i think the 8 cylinders entered the picture in '95